Yesterday, a bunch of new specs leaked for the Galaxy Nexus, or is it the Nexus Prime or maybe the Droid Nexus or the Droid Galaxy Nexus Prime? We still don’t know its name, but video of it in action has leaked around the Web. These pictures and the video below show off the first version of Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) in action, reports Mobilissimo (via Phandroid). This new version of Android appears to take after Android Honeycomb and will attempt to unify the handset and tablet world. We’re not sure how easy it is, but from what we’ve heard, Ice Cream Sandwich can switch from a tablet interface to a phone interface on the fly.
From a design perspective, Google is obviously pulling most of its influence from Android Honeycomb, but the minimalist Windows Phone design approach can be seen a bit. Previous versions of Android haven’t had such thin lines and monochromatic icons. Since WP7 is probably the best looking interface around, it makes sense that Google would pull some of its stylings into Android, which still doesn’t seem to have a personality of its own.
From a functionality standpoint, the unlock screen, previous tasks screen, on-screen home buttons (there are no physical face buttons on this phone), and paginated apps menu all scream Honeycomb as does the new settings menu and widgets. Some of the core Google apps appear to have gotten a facelift as well. In the video, we see a new camera app.
The Galaxy Nexus was scheduled to be unveiled by Samsung and Google next Tuesday (Oct 11) at CTIA in San Diego, but the two have backed out and are rescheduling the event. Here is the official statement sent to us by Samsung: “Samsung and Google have decided to postpone the Samsung Mobile Unpacked event during the CTIA in San Diego, previously scheduled for Oct. 11. Under the current circumstances, both parties have agreed that this is not the appropriate time for the announcement of a new product. We would ask for the understanding of our clients and media for any inconvenience caused. We will announce a new date and venue in due course.”
According to Business Insider, a Google spokeperson has confirmed that the passing of Jobs is the primary reason for the rescheduling. “We believe this is not the right time to announce a new product as the world expresses tribute to Steve Jobs’s passing,” said Google.
The presumed November launch of the Galaxy Nexus may still happen, but it looks like its debut will be delayed. Rumors now point toward an Oct. 27th unveiling in London.
Update 11:40 am: Got the official word from Samsung that this event was being canceled. The new quote has been inserted.
Update: 12:51 pm: The Next Web believes that the new date for the event is Oct. 27 and it will be held in London.
Update 1:17 pm: Added a quote from a Google spokesperson confirming Steve Jobs was the reason for the rescheduling.
